Record number of rowing teams attend annual Shrewsbury Dragon Boat Festival - in pictures

Severn Hospice hosted its flagship Dragon Boat Festival event over both days at the weekend.

The unique event saw teams race 40ft dragon boats along the Severn, cheered on by hundreds of spectators.

There were 20 teams racing on Saturday and the winning team was 2 Can Army from Shrewsbury. Another 22 teams took part yesterday.

Organisers have hailed this year’s event as a success and say it is expected to raise more than £50,000 for the hospice. Lucy Ruff, fundraising manager at Severn Hospice, said: “It was amazing. So many people came out to support the teams.

“Everyone has had a great time and hundreds of spectators have been lining the river. There were lots of cheers for the teams.

“We are really pleased with the turnout and the weather has been perfect – the best we’ve had yet.

“We have had more teams than ever before this year and we hope it will raise over £50,000 for the hospice.”

She said it was an important event in the hospice’s fundraising calendar, adding: “Events like this enable us to continue looking after people when they need it most.

“Every year we look after more than 2,500 people and their families.”

This year the event was held over two days for the first time.

Each team paid £300 to register and raised more funds through sponsorship.

Severn Hospice gives specialist care and support free of charge to families across Shropshire and Mid Wales who are living with an incurable illness.

Since 1989, the charity, which has hospices in Telford and Shrewsbury, has given free care and support to more than 27,000 patients and their loved ones during their time of greatest need. For more information about Severn Hospice visit severn hospice.org.uk.